University of Washington to study children with autism

SEATTLE (AP) _ University of Washington researchers are recruiting Seattle-area children with autism as part of a four-year study to identify biological markers.

The Seattle Times reports (http://bit.ly/1SB7HFk ) that the $25 million study at five sites across the country hopes to find biomarkers that will help diagnose, track and treat the disorder.

Researchers will study children ages 3 to 5 and six to 11 both with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder to compare social impairment and social function.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a group of neurodevelopment disorders that affect communication and social interaction. The disorder can cause repetitive or restrictive behaviors as well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about one in every 68 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with the disorder.